Growing Up In Public

My knowledge of rap and hip hop is laughable, so it's no surprise that I know naff all about today's featured artist, Bow Wow.

However, as yesterday's post featured Bow Wow Wow, it seemed too good an opportunity to pass up a tenuous link, given that Bow Wow performed a Tiny Desk Concert less than a fortnight ago.

I was vaguely aware of Lil' Bow Wow, but I don't know when Bow Wow stopped being Lil', if you get my meaning. Shad Gregory Moss, as his mum named him, turned 39 in March and also celebrates his 33rd (33rd!) year in the music business. Shad first TV appearance was The Arsenio Hall Show in 1993, aged six (six!!) and the first Lil' Bow Wow album came out in 2000.

After retiring from music in 2016 - Shad tweeted at the time that “I just can’t see myself at 30 years old rapping" - the recent Tiny Desk Concert has clearly seen a change of heart (and/or fortunes).

Whatever the reason, this six-song set is apparently back-to-back hits, though I have to confess that I don'r recognise a single one of them. I haven't paid close attention to the lyrics during my single listen so far, but I like the vibe of the music, Bow Wow and the band seem to be having a great time, and it feels like a perfect listen for a relaxed Sunday.

1) Outta My System

2) "Fresh Azimiz

3) Shortie Like Mine

4) Bounce With Me

5) Let Me Hold You

6) Like You

Forced to choose, I'd probably stick with Bow Wow Wow, but this is a pleasant enough way to spend 20-odd minutes.